Kolkata has a vibrant drinking culture that is as historic as it is nostalgic. The city itself has a paused-in-time vibe, and some of its most popular bars aptly capture that ambiance. In addition to serving classic bar snacks and food, they also offer an atmosphere steeped in 20th-century history. From unpretentious pubs to old-world jazz bars, drinking establishments in Kolkata are unlike anything you would have ever witnessed. If you or someone you know is visiting Kolkata soon and is on the lookout for some quaint, old-school bars to kick back and relax at, unsobered has rounded up a few places that fit the bill.
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Trincas was established in 1927, and to date, it is still one of the most legendary and renowned old-school jazz bars in the city. The walls are adorned with old, sepia-tinted black-and-white pictures that add to the classical charm. The staff, too, is all suited up and in fancy attire that harks back to a much older time.
Address: 17, Park St, near Oxford Book Store, Taltala
Timings: 11:30 AM to 11:45 PM
Cost For Two: INR 1,600 approx.
Established in 1937, this particular restaurant looks straight out of a 1920s album. It’s a Kolkata institution with so much character that it has been attracting the masses since its inception. Their food and drinks are equally worthy of mention. They serve delicious bites alongside boozy sips. If you can, we would highly recommend going on a live music night because jolly, drunk people start dancing, and it’s a whole vibe!
Address: 27A, Ganesh Chandra Ave, Bowbazar
Timings: 11 AM to 12:30 AM
Cost For Two: INR 1,200 approx.
Also Read: Is Conversation Room In Kolkata Good? Honest Review Of The Bar
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Contrary to its name, New Cathay is not new at all. It is a Chinese bar that was established in 1945 and is nestled in the heart of a bustling market. On the inside, however, the place is oozing with colonial charm and a blend of Asian and Indian decor. The food here is no joke. Not enough praise can be sung about the desi Chinese here. This makes it the perfect place to eat at when you’re drunk or hungover.
Address: Grand Hotel Arcade, 17, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Esplanade, Dharmatala, Taltala
Timings: 11 PM to 11 AM
Cost For Two: INR 1,800 approx.
Tripty’s is for those who are most at home at a no-frills restaurant with amiable staff and homely food. It was first established in 1935 and has managed to stay afloat for almost a century at this point. And once you do visit this place, it is not difficult to see why. You experience a bit of old Kolkata’s nightlife here, which makes it a great place to hang out at.
Address: 31, Ashutosh Mukherjee Rd, Opposite Netaji Bhavan, Jadubabur Bazar, Bhowanipore
Timings: 11 AM to 11:30 PM
Cost For Two: INR 600 approx.
Olypub is easily one of the most legendary drinking institutions in Kolkata. Established in the year that India got its independence, 1947. It serves traditional bar bites, which, along with its ambiance, make it a classic. This place is absolutely a must-visit if you want to experience the classic Kolkata drinking culture.
Address: Olypub is located at 21, Park Street, Taltala, Park Street Area
Timings: 11 AM to 11 PM
Cost For Two: INR 1,300 approx.
Also Read: Where To Drink In Baner? 7 Bars And Pubs For A Night Out
Kolkata’s drinking culture truly goes back a long time. All of the places listed here are perfect if you’re looking for a chill environment where you can just sit and catch up with your friends or go solo drinking. So, if you haven’t visited any of these places, make sure you do so when you visit Kolkata next time. The quaint charm combined with the lively bustle offers an ambiance that is unlike any other place.
